“Illuminated Title Page,” from The Chaplet of Literary Gems: a Present, Worthy of all Occasions. Claremont, N.H.: Claremont Manufacturing Company, between 1850 and 1858.

With the establishment of lithography, many gift book publishers added color illustrations to enhance the eye-catching value of their annuals. Most often a single color lithographed title page was inserted. Some were quite elaborate, but most, such as this example from a small New Hampshire publisher, featured just a few colors to brighten up the title page design.

Adopted by Hilary Wyss on behalf of John and Dorothy Truman, Christmas 2012